Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has been released from prison following the Court of Appeal’s decision to overturn his conviction for sexually assaulting a minor.

Omiyinka was arrested in 2021 and, in July 2022, sentenced by the Lagos State High Court, Ikeja, to 16 years in prison after being found guilty on multiple counts involving a 14-year-old girl.

A video shared on Saturday showed him sitting in a vehicle shortly after his release, visibly relieved and stating that he needed rest. In a brief phone call captured in the footage, he said in Yoruba, “Apase, I’m out… I just came out. I want to relax. I just want to leave here, so I decided to inform you. Thank you for supporting me. I will call you.”

Fellow actor and activist Yomi Fabiyi confirmed Omiyinka’s release, describing the appellate court’s ruling as bringing clarity to what he considered a mishandled case. Fabiyi emphasized that the decision effectively clears the actor and urged both the public and authorities to handle sensitive allegations with care.

“He is not just back but better,” Fabiyi wrote, noting that the extended legal proceedings underscored the importance of fairness, due process, and the protection of rights, particularly in cases involving minors. He reaffirmed his commitment as a human rights advocate, stating, “We never and will never condone or support any form of sexual abuse, especially involving children or minors. We will continue to advocate for justice and the protection of fundamental human rights.”

The Court of Appeal overturned the previous conviction on the grounds that the evidence presented was insufficient to uphold the earlier judgment, resulting in Omiyinka’s release.